Jetour T2 i-DM vs The New Coolray: Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle?

The Jetour T2 i-DM’s plug-in hybrid system offers a silent, electric start and smooth power delivery around town. In city driving, it feels refined and effortless, with regenerative braking that can be adjusted for one-pedal operation. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing potholes and speed bumps well, though body roll is noticeable in corners. On the highway, the petrol engine kicks in seamlessly, but it can sound strained under hard acceleration. The T2 i-DM also features a selectable all-wheel-drive system, giving it light off-road capability for gravel tracks or muddy paths.

The New Coolray is a pure petrol turbo, and it’s noticeably more eager. The engine revs freely, and the dual-clutch transmission delivers punchy, quick shifts when you floor it. Steering is sharp and direct, making the Coolray feel agile in traffic and fun on twisty roads. However, the firmer suspension transmits more road imperfections into the cabin, and the ride can be jittery over broken surfaces. It’s purely front-wheel drive, so off-road aspirations are limited to smooth dirt roads. For daily commuting, the Coolray’s zippy character is engaging, but the T2 i-DM’s smoothness and fuel-saving electric mode are more relaxed for stop-and-go conditions.

The T2 i-DM prioritizes comfort. Front seats are generously padded and supportive, with decent adjustability. Rear seat space is good for two adults, with a flat floor aiding middle passenger comfort. Road and wind noise are well suppressed at city speeds, but tyre noise becomes noticeable on coarse highways. The climate control works effectively, and the cabin feels well-insulated from external sounds when in EV mode.

The Coolray’s cabin is sportier, with bolstered front seats that hold you in place. However, the padding is firmer, and longer journeys may leave some wishing for more cushioning. Rear headroom is tight for taller passengers due to the sloping roofline, and the center seat is less accommodating. Road noise is more evident, especially from the wide tyres, and the engine note is deliberately sporty, which can become tiring on long trips. The Coolray wins on interior design flair with contrast stitching and red accents, but the T2 i-DM offers greater overall ride comfort and quietness.

The T2 i-DM, being a boxy SUV, offers excellent interior space. Rear legroom is generous, and the flat floor allows three adults to sit across without discomfort. The boot is deep and square, easily swallowing large suitcases or strollers. There are multiple cubbies up front, including a wireless charging pad and large door pockets. The hybrid battery does not intrude into cargo space. A temporary spare wheel is located under the floor, useful for remote travel.

The Coolray sacrifices some practicality for style. Rear legroom is adequate for two adults, but the sloping roof limits headroom and boot height. The boot is shallow and has a high loading lip, making heavy items harder to load. Cabin storage is decent but smaller overall. There is no spare wheel; a tire repair kit is provided. For a small family or single urban dweller, the Coolray’s space is acceptable, but the T2 i-DM is clearly more versatile for carrying passengers and cargo on a regular basis.

The T2 i-DM features a large central touchscreen with crisp graphics and a logical menu layout. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect quickly, and the native navigation works well. The digital instrument cluster is clear and customizable, showing hybrid system status. Voice control understands natural commands for climate and navigation, though it can be slow. The 360-degree camera system is sharp and aids parking. A notable omission is adaptive cruise control on base variants; higher trims include it.

The Coolray’s infotainment screen is similarly sized but has a more colorful interface. It also supports wireless smartphone mirroring, but the system can lag occasionally. The digital cluster is sporty, with a tachometer-dominated layout. The voice assistant is less capable, often requiring specific phrases. The Coolray’s 360-degree camera is standard on most trims and is equally useful. However, the Coolray offers a more comprehensive suite of driver assists as standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, which on the T2 i-DM is reserved for top trims. In everyday tech usability, the T2 i-DM’s software feels more polished, but the Coolray has more standard safety tech.

Jetour, a relatively new brand outside China, is building its dealer network. In many overseas markets, coverage is still growing, meaning service centers may be far from remote areas. Parts availability is a concern, though the brand has been using proven hybrid components from its parent company. The T2 i-DM’s hybrid system features a separate electric motor and a small battery pack, which adds complexity but typical Chinese-brand warranty periods are competitive (check local terms).

The Coolray, from Geely (which also owns Volvo technology), has a stronger global presence. Dealers are more widespread, and parts are generally easier to source. The 1.5-litre turbo engine is shared with several models, so mechanics may already be familiar with it. Build quality on the Coolray is consistent; common issues reported include interior rattles on rough roads. Geely’s warranty coverage is similar to Jetour’s, but the brand’s longer international history gives it an edge in perceived reliability. For buyers prioritizing hassle-free ownership, the Coolray is the safer bet; for those willing to embrace a newer brand with potentially lower maintenance costs (if a dealer is near), the T2 i-DM is worth considering.